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What About Lichen Planus - in the mouth?
Question: I was recently diagnosed with lichen planus (inside my mouth, on both cheeks, under bottom lip). I have a follow up appointment next week at Mass Eye and Ear. Are you aware of any homoeopathy treatment for this - a dreadful feeling inside my mouth, with a slight metallic taste?
Thanks for any help or information. I guess I need to order some tooth soap. One important aspect is that some irritants that can cause an outbreak of cold sores could also be associated with lichen planus.

Answer: The good news is that lichen planus eventually goes away on its own. In itself that isn't very encouraging. However it suggests to me that the condition may be related to some of the viral situations that cause mouth pain, such as cold sores. I am not suggesting that lichen planus is directly related to the herpes virus, but that there seem to be some similarities.

You suggested using tooth soap and I agree - for two very important reasons. One, most commercial toothpastes contain sodium laurel sulfate (or one of its cousins). It is a cheap foaming agents that practically every manufacturer uses. I've know people who swear that they get an outbreak of cold sores if they happen to leave just a little toothpaste on their lip after brushing with toothpaste. Some people are very sensitive to SLS.

Two, most toothpastes and mouthwashes also contain fluoride, another highly irritating (toxic) substance.

Tooth soap contains neither of those chemicals. It also is free of added glycerin - a substance that forms a sticky film on teeth. People have told me how their teeth are still smooth in the morning after using tooth soap before going to bed, and that never happens when they use a regular toothpaste.

I know of NO reason to use any of the commercial tooth products. Soap is a superior cleaner and it does not contain any offending substances.

An additional product you may find useful is PeriGum. It is a mixture of natural substances, one of which is capsaicin, the HOT ingredient in peppers. A small amount added to rinse water does an excellent job in disinfecting the mouth after brushing. When starting with PeriGum, use just a few drops, then increase gradually (instructions on the package). One of our customers told me about PeriGum a couple of months ago and I'm now a big fan.

PeriGum is available in many stores. If you cannot find it locally you can order from us. Here's a link to an information page about PeriGum http://www.thecompounder.com/perigum.php


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